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Bill

HB 5761

AN ACT ELIMINATING THE SUBMINIMUM WAGE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nick Gauthier

Connecticut bill eliminates lower wage rates for workers with disabilities, requiring all employers pay standard minimum wage regardless of employee disability status or work setting.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Labor and Public Employees
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Bill Summary · HB 5761

Legislative bill overview

HB 5761 proposes to eliminate Connecticut's subminimum wage—the lower hourly rate currently allowed for certain workers, particularly those with disabilities employed in sheltered workshops. The bill would require all employers to pay at least the standard minimum wage to all workers regardless of disability status or work setting.

Why is this important

This change affects thousands of workers with disabilities in Connecticut who currently earn significantly less than minimum wage (sometimes just a few dollars per hour). The policy raises questions about employment accessibility, worker dignity, and the sustainability of sheltered workshop programs that rely on this wage differential to operate.

Potential points of contention

  • Employment vs. displacement risk: Advocates worry that eliminating subminimum wages could reduce job opportunities for workers with disabilities if employers find them less profitable to hire, while supporters argue workers deserve equal pay for equal work
  • Workshop program viability: Sheltered workshops operating under current models may face financial strain or closure, affecting both employment numbers and support services for disabled workers
  • Implementation timeline: No clear transition period specified means potential abrupt disruption to existing employment arrangements and program operations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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